Amid the recent fervor regarding GMO-based foods, this case punctuates the growing importance of food labeling, especially as it pertains to children and pregnant women, who face a greater risk of lead poisoning.

While Lynda Gledhill, the attorney general’s press secretary, said the lead levels were sporadic — “meaning it wasn’t something that was naturally occurring” — the nature of this case poses the greatest threat, because pregnant women often enjoy ginger candy during their pregnancy and children are, no doubt, notorious candy eaters.

California’s Proposition 65 states businesses must disclose to consumers the harmful toxins found in food, toys, jewelry, and other products — a disclosure that the suit argues never happened. Read More